Star of Wonder ~ Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for 

 Star of Wonder by Angela Hunt 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Star of Wonder 

By Angela Hunt 

Star of Wonder takes the reader into the little-known, forgotten truths of the First Christmas. Spend the days of December taking a new look at what the world Jesus was born into was really like. 

But this is more than just a collection of dry facts broken into 25 readings. No, this is much more. Star of Wonder goes into detail about the various aspects, people, places, and their significance into the whole of what we consider the Nativity story. This story began with the Creation of a Garden and the gift of free will. A gift that was poorly used, as demonstrated by humanity's first decision to sin. This decision, this choice freely given, was the catalyst of a thread throughout history that brought about both Jesus's birth and His death.

This book is broken into four parts so that it can be experienced not only on a daily basis but so one's family can add a weekly touch to the Advent season. The four parts focus on different aspects of the story: Places, Prophecies, People, and Purpose. Altogether, one comes away with a deeper, richer understanding of the story that has run through much of HIStory. A story that will only mean something IF you believe.

* The one issue/concern that could be raised is the author's statement: "Scripture leads me to believe that Jesus was born with the same free will and tendency towards sin that you and I were born with. Which makes His resistance to temptation-not only on one occasion but throughout His life-all the more amazing. If He was born with a sin nature like all people, He never once surrendered to sin, even as a child."

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Star of Wonder 

Author: Angela Hunt 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: September 26, 2023 

Genre: Advent Devotional 

Come, Rediscover the Wonder and Reality of the Very First Christmas 

We all love the Christmas season, but have we buried the truth of the day? 

Bestselling author Angela Hunt weaves together visceral storytelling with overlooked biblical historical truths to help you rediscover the places, people, prophecies, and purpose of Christmas. Each of the engaging twenty-five devotions includes scriptural insights, historical facts, and personal application, which--along with weekly family activities--will have everyone saying, "I didn't know that!" as the Nativity comes to life anew. 

Explore Bethlehem and Nazareth. Walk with Mary, Joseph, and others. Be amazed by the words of the prophets of old. And be warmed by God's great purpose that culminated in the birth of the Messiah. 

Star of Wonder is perfect as an individual Advent devotional or for family and small group study. You will see Christmas with new eyes, create lasting holiday memories, and shine a light on the wonder of that night so long ago. 

"This Advent devotional is written with passion, showing patterns and prophecies that filled me with renewed hope and wonder."--FRANCINE RIVERS, bestselling author of The Lady's Mine and Redeeming Love

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | Christianbook | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela's novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

Connect with Angela by visiting angelahuntbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive one Angela Hunt book released by Bethany House Publishers from the last two years (winner's choice)!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight on October 11, 2023, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 18, 2023. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Release Day for Raise the Dead

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It's release day for Raise the Dead: A Retelling of Jane Eyre by Nina Claire!

This is the 5th book in the A Classic Retold multi-author series, and it’s out today! 

Blurb:

Would you go into hell to rescue the one you love?

After long years of hardship, Jane Rochester is now a young bride settling into a quiet life with the man she loves. But a mysterious stranger at the door resurrects old troubles, unearths buried secrets, and revives a family curse; the past will not leave them in peace.

A malignant force is tearing Jane’s new family apart, and she will have to journey into the very mouth of hell to seek to break it, with no assurance of ever returning home to the living world.

Nina Clare re-imagines Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre in a fantasy quest through the supernatural realms of heaven and hell.

https://www.ninaclarebooks.com/

The Secrets Beneath ~ Review

The Secrets Beneath

Treasures of the Earth #1

By Kimberley Woodhouse

The Secrets Beneath is a historical fiction piece set in 1870s Montana, within the Wyoming Territory. It is a time when everything discovered is truly unique and awe-inspiring. In this world, we are introduced to an intriguing cast of characters who contrast sharply with one another. 

Anna Lakeman has spent years working alongside her father, a paleontologist. Working as the illustrator for his digs, Anna isn't your normal 19th-century young lady. She loves what she does and supports the field of study in the only way she can - through her drawings.  Three years ago, her heart was broken when Joshua Ziegler left. 

When Joshua left to pursue his medical education, he spoke out against Anna's work on her father's digs. Returning home for a short break, Joshua can only hope to make it right with Anna or at least ask for her forgiveness. But when Anna's father falls ill, and Joshua's nephew goes missing, fate seems to be conspiring against them. 

And then there is Julian Walker, considered odd by everyone and the son of Old Walker, the meanest, wealthiest man in the region. One feels for Julian Walker, his background, and the opinions of those who live nearby, well, it all adds up to a sad history. And yet, one can't blame those who know him, though "know" is inadequate when considering his limited interactions with the community.

So, let me say I really enjoyed this book. The setting was beautifully described while not bogging one down in too much detail. And then, one can feel moments of terror as Anna struggles to withstand the force that is trying to destroy her. (Yes, you need to read the book because any more info will ruin the suspense).  The characters drive this story with their varied personalities, full of depths waiting to come to life as one progresses through the book.

If you like your books to be a well-balanced blend of genres, this book will take care of that. Romance, Mystery, Suspense, Inspiration, and History all come together beautifully in this book. I was drawn in from the opening lines. 

This is the first book in the Treasures of the Earth series, and it promises to be a most enlightening and enjoyable reading experience. This book is one I would highly recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction with a touch of suspense and mystery.  

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

 QUICK FACTS
 Title: The Secrets Beneath
 Series: Treasures of the Earth (Book 1)
 Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
 Genre: Historical Fiction, Western Romance, Inspirational Fiction
 Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (September 26, 2023)
 Length: (336) pages
 Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, and Audiobook 
 ISBN: 978-0764241680‎
 Tour Dates: October 9 – October 23, 2023

About the Book:

Some secrets can only stay buried for so long. . . .

Anna Lakeman has spent her life working alongside her paleontologist father, drawing intricate sketches at every dig. When they find dinosaur bones near their home in Wyoming Territory, they're given the opportunity of a lifetime and are swiftly caught up in the competitive era of the Bone Wars. But after her father becomes sick and Joshua Ziegler, an old beau, returns for the summer, Anna's world is upended, and the practical, orderly life she has made for herself shatters.

Medical student Joshua Ziegler left his hometown to forget Anna, the one woman he
truly loved and deeply hurt. But when he returns, time hasn't erased the feelings they've always had for each other. After Joshua's nephew goes missing—just like his sister did years ago—and Anna's job is threatened, tensions mount and dangerous secrets are unearthed.

PRAISE FOR THE SECRETS BENEATH

 “…a propulsive launch with plenty of fuel for future adventures.”— Publisher’s
Weekly

 "This book is full of intrigue and adventure, twists and turns…I highly recommend
you pick up a copy and enjoy the journey."— Tracie Peterson, author of
Pictures of the Heart

 “Fans of Kimberley Woodhouse will rejoice in this launch to a unique and
engaging new series."— Jocelyn Green, author of The Metropolitan Affair

Available for Purchase at:

AMAZON | BARNES and NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB |

GOODREADS

About the Author:

Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than 30 fiction and nonfiction books. Kim and her incredible husband of 30-plus years live in Colorado, where they play golf together, spend time with their kids and grandbaby, and research all the history around them.

Connect with Kimberley Woodhouse online:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | BOOKBUB |  GOODREADS

To Escape a Wonderland ~ Review

To Escape a Wonderland:

An Alice in Wonderland Retelling

By Cece Louise 

She made a mistake, she thought she was in love, but it cost her everything. Now she lives in another country trying to hide who she was. But the past has caught up to her, a past she'd rather forget.

Bayne has just given up his role as a knight, he needs a fresh start away from the suspicious, accusatory stares. But when he comes across a woman in need of assistance, or so he thinks, he has to come to her aid. 

When the kingdom is threatened by outlaws, Alice's true identity and mistakes are revealed. But she's determined to help Bayne in any way possible to protect those she has come to care for. As Avi and Bayne plan for a way to thwart not only the man who tried to kill her years before but to stop the Jabberwocky he seeks. But Avi forgets one very important thing - to never look a Jabberwocky in the eyes.

Drawn into a world of madness, where nothing is as it seems, Bayne and Avi must battle their fears if they hope to survive this wonderland they are trapped in.

To Escape a Wonderland is delightful, interest grabbing read from the opening lines. Two broken, guilt-ridden people must work through the mistakes of their pasts and join forces if they hope to save the kingdom they call home. This is Wonderland as you have never before experienced it. The scenery, the characters just pop off the page as the story unfolds. If you love fairy tale retellings you won't want to miss this offering from The Shattered Tales. This is a standalone title so you can enjoy without reading the other books in the series or the author's Forest Tales series (now on my TBR list!)

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

What if Alice was trapped in Wonderland?

Alice once fell in love with the wrong man and paid a devastating price. Now she hides a dark secret and will stop at nothing to discover what happened to the sister she left behind. Bayne, a former knight, only wants a fresh start after his service almost cost him his life—and his mind. He certainly isn’t expecting a run-in with a thieving maidservant from his prior kingdom to change everything.

When the two are captured by outlaws and forced to partake in a traitorous plot, they end up lost in a perilous enchanted land with no way out. They must learn to trust each other—and themselves—if they hope to be freed from a twisted world where nothing is what it seems.

But the clock is ticking and some riddles have no answer. Can they escape before it’s too late, or will they be trapped in a land of madness forever?

To Escape a Wonderland is a retelling of Alice in Wonderland. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romance, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time.

Garden of the Midnights ~ Review

Garden of the Midnights

By Hannah Linder

Twenty plus years ago he was threatened with the truth, a truth he wanted buried. And now he has to face what he had tried to avoid.

William Kensley has never wanted to be someplace but Rosenleigh Manor. But when accidents suddenly start befalling him he must confort the ugly truth - the accidents are no accident. Could someone be trying to kill him? But why? Believing the truth behind his unknown father could hold the key, he sets off to learn what he can.

What he learns will shatter his world.  

Isabella Gresham is expected to marry well, her father has expectations for her. But Isabella has expectations as well, and giving away her heart isn't one of them. When she meets William there is something between them, something that will bring her an unexpected joy and enjoyment of life. But circumstances being what they are prevent even a thought of romance. 

There is danger that stalks them both, and unless they can discover the truths long buried it may destroy them both.

This was a excellent read from Hannah Linder. This is the first book have read by her, though I will admit to have two of her other books in my TBR pile next to my bed. Guess which books are moving there way up the stack.

This book was a wonderful blend of Suspense, History, Romance, and Inspiration. Both Isabella and William have been brought up in a web of lies. Lies that when one strand is pulled free starts to unravel all around it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something new.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

                                                                

QUICK FACTS
 Title: Garden of the Midnights
 Author: Hannah Linder
 Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
 Publisher: Barbour Books (October 1, 2023)
 Length: (320) pages
 Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, and audiobook 
 ISBN: 978-1636094380


BOOK DESCRIPTION
The accidents are not a matter of chance. They are deliberate. As English
gentleman William Kensley becomes aware of the danger at Rosenleigh Manor, he
pleads for the truth of his past from the only man he can trust—until that man is
murdered. 
 
As the secrets unfold into scandal, William’s world is tipped into destitution, leaving him
penniless and alone. His only comfort is in the constant friendship and love of
Isabella Gresham. If he does not have their nonsense at the seashore, their laughter,
their reckless adventures, has he anything at all?
 
He should have known that would be ripped from him too. When a hidden foe arises
from their acquaintances and imperils Isabella’s life, William may be the only one willing
to risk his life to rescue her. But even if he frees Isabella from her captors, will he still
have to forsake her heart? 

Some sacrifice everything for love. Others sacrifice love for everything else. In this
haunting tale of rigid social prejudices and heart-aching regrets, the greatest decision of
their life will be determined in the garden of the midnights. 

PRAISE FOR GARDEN OF THE MIDNIGHTS

 “Hannah Linder's engrossing new novel is taut with life-and-death danger, twisty
turns, and sweet, forbidden romance. Garden of the Midnights is sure to keep
you up late turning pages!”— Julie Klassen, bestselling author of The Sisters
of Sea View
 “A uniquely atmospheric novel, Garden of the Midnights intrigues from page one
and never lets up. Readers will be swept away in the mystery and romance, and
find themselves cheering for William and Isabella as they fight for their happily
ever after. Hannah Linder's newest is beautifully written and a wonderful fresh
take on the genre. One not to be missed!”— Joanna Barker, author of A Heart
Worth Stealing, A Game of Hearts, and Otherwise Engaged

 "Unexpected twists and turns abound in this sweeping Regency suspense!
Hannah Linder's writing is reminiscent of Austen, with fresh storytelling that will
keep you on the edge of your seat."— Kasey Stockton, author of I'm Not
Charlotte Lucas and the Bradwell Brothers series

PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion.

When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments―piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjo―songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. Her next novel, The Girl from the Hidden Forest, will be released on May 1, 2024.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

Release Day for Unearth the Tides

It's release day for Unearth the Tides: A Retelling of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Alissa J. Zavalianos!

This is the 4th book in the A Classic Retold multi-author series, and it’s out today! 

Unearth the Tides is available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, and it is also on Kindle Unlimited.

Blurb:

𝐁𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐓𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬

𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮

Huxley Krew Gannon III always knew he would be a royal guard; defending the Crown is in his blood. And coming from a long line of Gannons, that means the job is to be taken seriously at all costs.

When tragedy strikes, Huxley is framed for treason, and his only option is to flee to Braka’s most feared place: The Wasteful Tides.

It’s rumored a monstrous beast haunts those waters, but what Huxley encounters is even worse: an elusive captain, magical herbs, a beautiful lady, and unearthed truths that could change the course of history.

Unearth the Tides is a fantasy retelling of Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Filled with mystery, found family, and themes of truth and forgiveness, Unearth the Tides is perfect for those who love the coziness of the classics and the thrill of adventure.

Link to order:

https://www.amazon.com/Unearth-Tides-Retelling-Leagues-Classic/dp/B0CBPKJ7SH - 

Silent Stars ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Silent Stars by Brett Armstrong, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Silent Stars

Tomorrow's Edge #3

By Brett Armstrong

Silent Stars opens with the threat closing in on Elliott as he attempts to retrieve files that his grandfather hid away before his death. Elliott manages to escape due to his girlfriend Lara, but the secrets he's keeping are about to drive a wedge between them. Secrets that are revealed when the Siegers catch up to them. Whoops, the time for coming clean has just passed. 

Project Alexandria may have been stopped, but something worse is then revealed - the Babel Initiative. And it is a global threat. What's worse, Elliott knows something about the whole situation feels off, but he can't pinpoint what exactly. And until he does, his life and the lives of those aiding him are in danger.

Now I will say reading the first two books in the series is probably a good idea. If you don't, the lack of backstory will confuse you about what is happening. If you haven't read the previous two books, you could still enjoy the book, just with some gaps in needed information - like why everything is happening. 

Elliott and his girlfriend Lara are teenagers who just want to live Normal. Not on the run. Not trying to save the world and the people from something they don't even realize is a threat. But normal has a way of changing and getting it back just might be impossible. But they have to try - for themselves and the rest of the world.

This is a near-dystopian sci-fi read with threads of Christianity running through it. There is plenty of action and a few mysteries as to just what the enemy is attempting to do and how they seemingly know where the Siegers are hiding out. Is it a mole or something far more sinister? Hmmm. This book can hold one's attention from beginning to end and is worth the time spent reading.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Silent Stars
Series: Tomorrow's Edge #3
Author: Brett Armstrong
Publisher: Expanse Books
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Genre: Christian, Dystopian, Science Fiction

AD 2040: Barely eighteen, things have become much harder for Elliott. Reeling from the losses during the confrontation that brought Project Alexandria to a halt, Elliott feverishly hunts for the original files needed to finish it off. Finding only dead ends, he instead stumbles upon something dire: messages about the Babel Initiative. Conceived as a successor that would make Project Alexandria’s manipulations seem tame, this new threat once again forces Elliott into alliances with morally grey programmers known as Siegers. Beset by continual setbacks and defeats, many Siegers abandon the cause and go underground to survive the dangers ahead. The bleak reality that Elliott and those closest to him are almost certain to die in the fight against Dr. Almundson begins to set in. But Elliott isn’t ready to give up. He knows the cost of such a silent surrender will be humanity itself.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

More in This Series

 

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About the Author

Brett Armstrong has been exploring other worlds as a writer since age nine. Years later, he still writes, but now invites others along on his excursions. He’s shown readers haunting, deep historical fiction (Destitutio Quod Remissio), scary-real dystopian sci-fi (Tomorrow's Edge), and dark, sweeping epic fantasy (Quest of Fire). Every story is a journey of discovery and an attempt to be a brush in the Master Artist’s hand. Through dark, despair, light, joy, and everything in between, the end is always meant to leave his fellow literary explorers with wonder and hope. Always busy with a new story, he also enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with his wife and son.

Connect with Brett by visiting brettarmstrong.net to follow him on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win a $25 Amazon gift card, print copy of Silent Stars, and a poster of a scene from the Tomorrow's Edge series!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 4, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 11, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Open to winners in the US, Canada, Australia, and UK only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!